In a current dialog with The Guardian, hip-hop icon, actor, and director Ice-T mirrored on the aftermath of the band’s protest music “Cop Killer,” launched again in 1992. The observe, which described a violent revenge fantasy involving a sawed-off shotgun used to “mud some cops off,” triggered widespread outrage upon its launch.
“Cop Killer” was subsequently eliminated it from later editions of Body Count‘s self-titled album, a choice that was reportedly made at Ice-T‘s request after Warner Brothers confronted immense strain. Shareholders threatened to drag out of the corporate as a result of music’s contentious nature, which led to its eventual removing. Body Count even confronted threats of arrest in the event that they tried to carry out the music dwell.
When requested if he ever second-guessed the choice to launch such a provocative music amidst the uproar, Ice-T responded: “I by no means actually questioned myself, however the warmth got here once they began sending bomb threats to Warner Brothers. I threw the rock; that is my warmth. However when different individuals might get damage, that is nerve-racking. However I acquired information for individuals: anyone who thinks controversy is a strategy to earn money, it is not. You get a variety of buzz, however now you want legal professionals. So do not simply say one thing silly after which backpedal. If you are going to say one thing, stand on it.”
Reflecting on the music’s reception over time, Ice-T instructed The Washington Post 4 years in the past that he wonders if individuals immediately may perceive “Cop Killer” higher than they did again in 1992. He mentioned, “It was a music about any person who, throughout a second like this, acquired so mad that they went after the cops. We do not need that man. However a variety of instances you warn individuals by saying this could occur. I by no means killed no cop. I’ve written higher songs which are extra on level with what I imagine immediately. I used to be just a little extra radical again then. ‘No Lives Matter’ addresses my emotions at this second. You bought to recollect, 32-years-ago Ice is totally different than now-66-year-old Ice.”
On the top of the “Cop Killer” controversy, Ice-T defined that his determination to drag the observe was additionally pushed by concern for the security of the employees at Warner Bros. Information and Sire Information. In keeping with Ice-T, staff had obtained demise threats from legislation enforcement as a result of their involvement in distributing the music. This added strain weighed closely on him and motivated his option to take away the observe.
As a part of the association to take “Cop Killer” off future variations of the Physique Rely album, Warner Brothers handed over the masters of the album to Ice-T, giving him full possession of the report.
In keeping with Billboard, “Cop Killer” stays conspicuously absent from all main streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. The observe can also be unavailable for buy as an iTunes obtain or as a part of the newly pressed CD.
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